Is It Time for a Deck Construction Project? Deck Renovation Made Easy

Feb 7, 2015

In an ideal world, you’d build your deck and that would be the end of the story. Unfortunately, decks often require yearly maintenance and repair. Here’s what you need to know about deck damage and deck board removal.

Why Do I Need To Replace Boards On My Deck?

Simply put, time and nature take its toll. Your deck is outside every day of the year. Hot, humid summers make the boards swell. Cold frigid winters make them contract and fill them with water that freezes, damaging your deck. As the seasons cycle through, your deck will begin to develop problems; mold and rot will take hold, the wood will crack and splinter, and your hardware may begin to rust or wear away as well. These elements often determine whether you need a quick repair or full deck construction project.

Look for the following signs that indicate a deck construction project is in order:

Signs of rot, such as black mold

Moss or lichen

Cracking or splitting, especially along the length of the board

Fasteners pulling away from the wood

As wood swells and shrinks it will push out nails and staples

A “mushy” or soft feeling when you step on the board

Silvering of the wood, especially when accompanied by other signs of damage

Don’t forget to look at the underside of your deck, as well; mold in particular loves darkness.

Won’t The Deck Stay Protected By Stain And Deck Sealant?

For a while, but just like the siding and paint on the house will show signs of damage and deterioration over time if it isn’t properly cared for, eventually these chemicals will wear off. And there’s only so much they can protect against; a particularly bad summer or winter can cause a lot of damage even the best deck sealant can’t stop.

What’s The Average Life Cycle Of A Deck?

That depends heavily on how it was put together and what kind of deck materials were used for the project. For example, a deck made of cheaper boards, or improperly constructed, may begin to show signs of damage as soon as a year or two after the deck has been built. A deck made of better wood or composite and with a proper treatment may last as long as a decade, but the simple fact is, sooner or later you’re going to have to start replacing boards on your deck. Ensure your deck construction project considers these elements during its initial planning.

Is This An Urgent Project?

Absolutely. Rotting deck boards are unsafe, and while they may feel firm and weight-bearing, in fact they might be ready to split at any time. Even one board giving way at the wrong time can cause serious injury to your family or friends and may cause additional damage to the deck.

Furthermore, a sick deck can lead to a sick house. If a deck is left unrepaired, it can collect mold, spores, and other types of rot. Left without being dealt with, a deck can cause serious damage to your house, and a bad deck can drag down your home’s resale value.